Chicago City Wire

The Art Institute of Chicago has received a significant donation from collectors Jeffrey and Carol Horvitz, enhancing its collection with French art from the 16th to the 19th century. The Horvitz Collection is recognized as the leading assembly of French Old Master artworks in the United States. This donation complements the museum's existing 19th-century French art holdings, offering a comprehensive overview of three centuries of French artistic achievements.

The gift includes nearly 2,000 drawings, 200 paintings, and 50 sculptures. It features renowned artists such as Charles Le Brun, François Boucher, Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Jacques-Louis David, and Théodore Géricault. Additionally, it highlights works by female artists like Anne Vallayer Coster and Élisabeth Vigée Lebrun. Rare pieces by Jacques Bellange and Reynaud Levieux are also part of this extensive collection.

Built over four decades, the collection has been displayed in various exhibitions across the United States and Europe. Recent showcases at the Art Institute featured selections from this vast collection under themes like "French Neoclassical Paintings" and "Revolution to Restoration."

To ensure proper care and accessibility for future generations, phased financial contributions will accompany this gift. These funds aim to support conservation efforts, special exhibitions, staff development, and research initiatives related to French art at the museum.

Jeffrey Horvitz stated: “We have always envisioned this collection remaining as a whole... There was no more perfect choice than the Art Institute.”

This collaboration involves Jeffrey and Carol Horvitz along with Alvin Clark, their curator of French artworks. Carol Horvitz is actively engaged with the museum's Board of Trustees. She has worked on other aspects of their collection including Chinese cinnabar lacquer and Japanese ceramics.

James Rondeau, President and Eloise W. Martin Director of the Art Institute expressed gratitude: “We are so grateful to Jeffrey and Carol for this impactful gift... Their generous financial support... will allow us to continue advancing our broader mission.”